Effects of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbuturate (HMB) supplementation on the body-composition and muscle power output of non-competitive sporting males

Abstract

This study was directed at establishing the effect of beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbuturate(HMB) supplementation on the body-omposition and muscle-power output of non-competitive sporting males between 19 and 24 years, who performed resistance weight training three times a week for 8 weeks. Physically active men and women are less likely to become overweight than their inactive peers. Exercise has a favourable effect on body fat distribution, with a reduction in waist-to-hip ratio with increased exercise. Physical activity can directly affect both total energy intake and total energy expenditure. Physical activity can also affect fat balance, and it is increasingly clear that imbalances in total energy are largely owing to imbalances in fat. Therefore, exercise testing provides a basis for the design of training programmes and allows for monitoring progress throughout the training programme. Used properly, testing and monitoring is useful to both trainers and athletes. Exercise in conjunction with an appropriate diet is of benefit to overweight persons, and provided that feasible methods and motivation are available, exercise is recommended as an important part of a weight-control programme. The effects of ß- Hydroxy-ß-methylbyturate were tested in a clinical trial. Two homogenous groups of 20 males were evaluated for initial strength capabilities and body composition. For 8 weeks the subjects lifted weights three times a week and followed a balanced diet. Creatine-kinase activity decreased with HMB supplementation. Gains in muscle power output were greater in the experimental group. Fat percentage decreases were recorded with HMB supplementation. By evaluating the creatine-kinase values and the weightlifting values of the two different groups, it can be concluded that HMB supplementation does lower protein breakdown and the fat percentage in subjects, in conjunction with resistance training.